Compression therapy has helped many individuals in coping with varicose veins and spider veins issues. It is an effective remedy for preventing these diseases in a minimally invasive manner. Wounds arising because of venous insufficiency can be treated with compression therapy too. It also helps in fighting edema and certain other medical conditions. It utilizes a compression stocking/sock for relieving pain and supporting veins.
Compression therapy’s popularity is immense, and in 2020, the market was forecasted to grow to a whopping $4.01 billion. Clearly, people across the US are increasingly trusting it. And for good reason.
But many are still unaware of its uses, benefits, effects, etc. Here are 10 facts that’ll make you understand everything you need to know about compression therapy.
Facts about Compression Therapy
1) Regulates Swelling
Edema is a condition when swelling is observed in your body tissues due to the accumulation of excess fluid. With compression therapy, patients can see a significant decrease in swelling in the tissues.
Besides, it helps remove excess lactic acid trapped in the lymphatic system and the muscles after working out. Moreover, it restores the flexibility in the joints and tendons by allowing the body to heal on its own.
2) Improves Blood Circulation
Compression therapy is known for improving blood circulation in the muscles. And we can never stress enough the importance of healthy circulation. A range of problems, including varicose veins, arise only because of the lack of proper circulation in the body.
At reputed vein specialist clinics like the Vein Center, it is a highly preferred method for varicose vein treatment. By increasing blood circulation, compression therapy alleviates pain and swelling.
3) Helps Prevent Blood Clotting
After undergoing surgery, many patients suffer from blood clots. This is common for some but can be prevented with compression socks.
As it improves blood circulation, there is a low risk of blood clots. Your body might not be active after surgery. But thanks to compression therapy, it can still maintain its normal circulation.
4) Helps Pregnant Women
In the case of pregnant women, gaining weight can lead to varicose veins. This happens when the growing uterus puts some pressure on the superficial veins. Your doctor will examine your overall health and weight before recommending compression therapy if you’re pregnant.
Some studies have proved that compression therapy enhances blood flow levels in pregnant women. And that too when progesterone causes the blood veins to relax. Vein relaxation complicates the blood transmission process. This problem can be handled with compression therapy quite effectively.
5) Compression Socks are Effective
When compression stockings or socks are made with the suitable material, they give the best results. Your doctor can recommend the perfect one for you while performing compression therapy.
They are available in different fibers such as cotton, nylon, etc. Based on the severity of your varicose veins, the right choice will be determined. They are effective in managing pain and swelling of the affected varicose veins.
6) It’s for Everyone
Compression therapy is not only for patients going through several medical issues like chronic venous disorder. Athletes can use them too while playing sports or running. For them, it brings performance improvement.
Moreover, it can help in dealing with significant injuries while being highly active. Compression socks can save athletes from many severe problems, including varicose veins.
7) It Assists in Controlling Post-thrombotic Syndrome
Post-thrombotic Syndrome is common after experiencing DVT (Deep vein thrombosis). It results in immense discomfort in some instances. You will struggle in doing daily activities if you have it.
Your doctor can sometimes advise compression therapy to help you deal with this situation. Although its efficacy is still debated in this disease, it doesn’t have any adverse effects and can often improve the condition too.
8) You Cannot Choose Random Compression Socks
Because they often look like regular socks and there’s no technicality involved, people often end up buying compression stockings on their own. But this is dangerous.
A vein specialist knows exactly how much compression your veins need and what’s best for them. So they are the right people to prescribe a compression sock for you. So go to them whenever you think you should get compression therapy. This way, you won’t risk having adverse effects either.
9) Compression Socks Don’t Look Bad
It’s a myth that compression socks make you look ugly. Today, many kinds of compression socks are available in the market with unique designs and patterns. You can choose the one you like best according to your style.
Of course, they aren’t your typical posh stockings or party socks, but if you’re going out just casually, there’s nothing ugly about them. So feel free to wear your compression stockings the next time you go grocery shopping.
10) Not for Summer
In summer, some people don’t wear compression stockings, thinking it will generate more heat. People indeed seek comfortable and light clothes in summer. But to fit the requirements of people, manufacturers are designing breathable and comfortable compression stockings.
While recommending compression therapy, most doctors will prescribe a fairly comfortable compression stocking. So don’t ditch compression therapy only because it’s hot outside. Instead, get a more heat-friendly option.
Conclusion
If varicose veins or other related issues are troubling you every day, it’s time you seek a holistic and safe treatment like compression therapy. Plus, you don’t have to pay a hefty amount for it. It is hassle-free and treats your varicose veins effectively. So go to a vein specialist today to get the right compression stockings for yourself.
